27/05/2025
🎨 Most people underestimate the power of art.
At Room 13, it’s nothing short of transformational.
This is TBWA\South Africa’s creative sanctuary – a place where kids from marginalised communities become brave artists, bold thinkers, and confident storytellers.
It’s not just about painting pretty pictures in words and brush strokes. It’s where imagination is fuelled, potential unlocked, futures reimagined — and built.
📍 Room 13’s two centres in South Africa have an enormous impact.
Room 13 alumni from Amohelang Primary School in the Free State and Maqamela Primary School in Mpumalanga have gone on to pursue tertiary studies – some even studying towards Master’s degrees – and are now thriving in their careers.
A number of them have entered the creative industries, pursuing paths they hadn’t known were possible before Room 13 opened their eyes to new opportunities.
The Roomies at Amohelang Primary School in Botshabelo, Free State, remain connected to the programme even after moving on to different high schools in the area. Their ongoing involvement and achievements continue to make their school and community proud.
At Maqamela Primary School, Room 13 is no longer an after-school programme – it’s now part of the school curriculum. The community knows it as “the art school”.
And, this is what the principal, Ronnie Nyathi says: “Room 13 has brought powerful, positive change to our learners. It’s not just an art space; it’s a place where children grow in confidence, creativity and critical thinking.
“They’re learning to express themselves, to lead, to plan, to collaborate, and to see art as a tool for social change.”
🎉 The results? Learners have won:
🏆 The Milk Awards
🏆 The Santam Child Award
🏆 The Free State Young Artist competition
🏆 National recognition in SAB and SAP art contests
Room 13 creates more than art. It builds people.
Because it’s never too late to have a happy childhood.
Thank you to everyone who attended the auction on May 14, your support is appreciated.
